The Oman Fisheries Co (OFC) stands apart in the business world not only as the largest fishing company in Oman, but also as a company with a solid and proactive corporate social responsibility agenda that it has been unfailingly adhering to with an undiminished zeal over the years.
Moving further the company now looks to model its CSR programme on ISO 26000, defined by core elements of accountability, transparency, ethics, stakeholder interest, rule of law, international behavioural norms and human rights.
With a network of processing and cold storage facilities across the Sultanate, the company has been closely working with local fishermen since its formation in 1989, supporting the communities in a big way.
An OFC official involved with the CSR project said that there is a misguided notion that CSR begins and ends with financial support to parties concerned. However, it spans a broad spectrum including environment, human resources, ethics, human rights and a lot more.
The company has a vigorous Omansiation policy giving educated youth ample scope for employment, supported by a host of skill development programmes.
On the environment front, OFC has achieved many a milestone. Old blast freezers are being replaced with freezers using ozone friendly refrigerants. Planting trees on the premises of processing plants, use of energy efficient lightings systems and process optimisation are all under way to promote a healthy environment. Supply chain emission controls through reduced transportation miles and logistics is also high on the agenda, which can be achieved through establishment of new processing units near landing centres, the official added.
Other major initiatives are promoting sustainable fishing practices with a view to boost biodiversity, and supporting government initiatives to protect endangered species like lobsters.
Another highlight of its CSR policy is encouraging fresh fish sales in local markets which goes in tandem with the government’s food security initiatives, and also cuts down energy used for freezing.
Going further, OFC also aims to drive its social commitment by supporting fishermen through initiatives that help them buy and repair boats and nets, and issuing baits and ice. Beyond this, plans are afoot to help achieve local economic empowerment by means of huge investments in income generating projects in the fisheries sector.
Donations and charities, waste control and embracing innovative packaging materials are all being pursued within its CSR framework. On the consumer side, ensuring safety of fish products features high on OFC’s priority list. There will be a continuous monitoring and performance reporting on CSR project implementation, the official said.
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